SRINAGAR, APRIL 18: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today bid farewell to the first batch of Haj pilgrims from Srinagar International Airport, marking the formal commencement of Haj operations 2026 from Jammu & Kashmir.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister interacted with the pilgrims, extending warm greetings and wishing them a safe, peaceful and spiritually fulfilling journey. He expressed hope that the sacred pilgrimage would reinforce the values of compassion, unity and brotherhood.
Speaking to the pilgrims, the Chief Minister prayed for the successful completion of Haj and sought divine blessings for lasting peace, harmony and prosperity in Jammu & Kashmir, as well as the well-being of its people.
As part of the first phase of operations, three flights carrying 431 pilgrims were scheduled to depart today from Srinagar International Airport. In total, 28 flights will operate between April 18 and May 5, 2026, to facilitate the pilgrimage.
This year, 4,706 pilgrims from Jammu & Kashmir will perform Haj.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Director Airport Srinagar, senior civil and police officials, members of the J&K Haj Committee, Airport Authority officials, and representatives of concerned departments were present on the occasion.
